Proverbs 23:17

Authorized King James Version

Let not thine heart envy sinners: but be thou in the fear of the LORD all the day long.

Word-by-Word Analysis

אַל

H408

not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing

יְקַנֵּ֣א

H7065

envy

to be (causatively, make) zealous, i.e., (in a bad sense) jealous or envious

לִ֭בְּךָ

H3820

Let not thine heart

the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything

בַּֽחַטָּאִ֑ים

H2400

sinners

a criminal, or one accounted guilty

כִּ֥י

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

אִם

H518

used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not

בְּיִרְאַת

H3374

but be thou in the fear

fear (also used as infinitive); morally, reverence

יְ֝הוָ֗ה

H3068

of the LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

כָּל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

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הַיּֽוֹם׃

H3117

all the day

a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso

Analysis

Within the broader context of Proverbs, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Proverbs.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Proverbs Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How might the original audience's understanding of divine sovereignty differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?

Related Resources

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Topics

Wisdom